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M-1 Visa (Vocational Student Visa)
The M-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to attend vocational or technical schools in the United States. It is specifically designed for students pursuing non-academic or vocational training programs rather than traditional degree programs.
What is an M-1 Visa?
The M-1 Visa is intended for students who wish to:
Enroll in vocational, technical, or non-academic programs in the United States.
Attend schools that provide hands-on training, career-specific skills, or technical education.
Participate in practical training related to their vocational program after completion.
Key features of the M-1 Visa include:
Validity is based on the duration of the vocational program, plus optional practical training periods (up to 1 year).
Allows eligible spouse and unmarried children under 21 to accompany the visa holder on M-2 dependent visas.
Requires enrollment in a SEVP-certified vocational or technical school.
Employment in the U.S. is restricted, except for limited practical training related to the program.
Why Choose an M-1 Visa?
Gain vocational or technical training at accredited U.S. institutions.
Spouses and children can accompany the student on M-2 dependent visas.
Opportunity to gain practical training related to the field of study after program completion.
Ideal for students seeking career-focused education and technical skills in the U.S.
Provides a pathway to enhanced career opportunities globally.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an M-1 Visa:
Must have acceptance from a SEVP-certified U.S. vocational or technical school.
Must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.
Must show intent to return to home country after completion of studies.
Must maintain full-time enrollment in the vocational program.
Must meet health, security, and admissibility standards.
Examples of evidence for eligibility:
Form I-20 issued by a SEVP-certified vocational school.
Bank statements or financial documentation proving ability to pay tuition and living costs.
Academic transcripts or certificates demonstrating eligibility for the program.
Passport and identification documents.
Documentation for dependents applying for M-2 visas.
M-1 Visa Process
Acceptance & Form I-20: Get accepted by a SEVP-certified vocational or technical school and receive Form I-20.
Visa Application: Complete Form DS-160 online and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
Consular Interview: Schedule and attend an M-1 visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
Visa Approval & Entry: Upon approval, enter the U.S. to begin vocational or technical training.
Maintain Status: Maintain full-time enrollment, update SEVIS records, and follow visa rules.
Optional Practical Training: Eligible students may apply for practical training related to their vocational program after completion.
Documents Required
Valid passport.
Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified vocational or technical school.
Form DS-160 confirmation and visa application fee receipt.
SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt.
Financial documentation proving ability to cover tuition and living expenses.
Academic transcripts, diplomas, or certificates.
Birth and marriage certificates for dependents (M-2 visa applicants).
Additional supporting documents as requested by the consulate.
Timeline & Processing Time
Visa Application & Consular Interview: 2–6 weeks, depending on consulate availability.
Form I-20 processing by school: 1–4 weeks, depending on the institution.
Overall Timeline: Typically 1–2 months, depending on documentation and consulate schedules.
M-1 vs. Other Student Visas
F-1 Visa: Academic study at universities, colleges, and high schools.
J-1 Visa: Exchange programs, cultural and educational exchanges.
M-1 Visa: Vocational or technical training programs with optional practical training.
How We Help
We provide full support for M-1 Visa applicants:
Guidance on SEVP-certified vocational and technical schools.
Assistance with Form DS-160, SEVIS I-901, and visa application procedures.
Support in preparing academic, financial, and personal documentation.
Guidance for consular interviews and M-2 dependent visas.
Step-by-step support throughout admission, visa application, and post-arrival processes.
Why Choose Us for M-1 Visa Assistance?
Expertise in U.S. vocational and technical student visa applications.
Proven success in M-1 visa approvals for diverse programs.
Assistance with documentation, visa procedures, and dependent applications.
Personalized guidance for students and their families.
Trusted partner for students seeking vocational education in the U.S.